India’s first IGBC certified zoo will be established in Bankhandi

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwindra Singh Sukkhu said that the ‘Durgesh Aranya Zoo’ to be built in Bankhandi in Dehra Assembly constituency of Kangra district will be India’s first zoo to receive certification from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for sustainable and environment friendly innovation. This project is officially registered with IGBC. Special attention will be given to building and landscape certification while following environmental standards in the zoo.
He said the state government is developing considering the balance of environmental protection and ecosystem and the IGBC certification process demonstrates this commitment of the state government. This certification demonstrates the state government’s priority to integrating environmental protection in the development of tourism and basic understructure. Along with Durgesh Aranya Park becoming the center of tourist attraction, this park will prove to be an unmatched masterpiece of conservation and innovation.
The first phase of the ‘Durgesh Aranya Zoo Garden’ project is being established in 25 hectares of land at a cost of around Rs 230 crore, said Shri Sukkhu. Whose year is likely to be completed by the third quarter of 2025. He said the zoo, built at a cost of Rs 619 crore, will become the main center of attraction for tourists as well as locals and will promote tourism activities in the region. Under the first phase, 34 animal fleets will be built, ensuring biodiversity for which the state government has received approval from the Central Zoo Authority. Under this 73 species including Asian lion, hog deer, monitor lizard, crocodile, gator and various bird species will be displayed. A nocturnal house will be built at the zoo featuring cat species. Also, a wetland aviary at the zoo will feature indigenous species birds.
The Chief Minister said that the Durgesh Aranya Zoo Park being established in District Kangra will give new wings to tourism in the region and provide employment and self-employment opportunities for the youth, strengthening the local economy. With the unique beauty of district Kangra and the eco-friendly structure established by the state government, Kangra district is emerging as the main hub of tourism. This innovative initiative demonstrates the state government’s commitment to promoting eco-tourism and sustainable development, establishing Kangra as the ‘tourism capital’ of the state.